Potential vs Kinetic Energy: Proton-Hydrogen Deflection

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In a proton-hydrogen deflection experiment, as the proton approaches the hydrogen atom, the electrostatic forces cause a conversion of kinetic energy (KE) into potential energy (PE). The principle of conservation of energy states that the total energy remains constant, meaning that an increase in potential energy corresponds to a decrease in kinetic energy. This process illustrates the relationship between potential and kinetic energy in physics. The discussion confirms that the energy transformation is accurate and aligns with fundamental physics concepts. Understanding this interaction is crucial for grasping the dynamics of atomic interactions.
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urgent potential vs Kinetic

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Just a quick question. Potential energy is the measurement of a particle's position. In a proton-hydrogen deflection expirement, as the proton gets closer to the hydrogen would the electrostatic forces of between the atoms turn kinetic into potential, as the particle gets closer? Is that right?

Thanks :)
 
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Hi thomas49th! :wink:

Quick answer: yes, KE + PE = constant, so the increasing PE means a decreasing KE, and kinetic has been turned into potential (energy) :smile:
 


This is physics, not mathematics, so I am moving the question.
 

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